In the News: Basildon borough to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day
Thursday 8 May 2025 will see the borough of Basildon join the rest of the country to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day).
It is an opportunity for us all as a community and the nation to come together to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from across the UK and Commonwealth, through a series of national and local events and activities.
To mark the historic occasion, the day will kick off with a commemorative flag raising ceremony at 9am outside the Basildon Centre,
Across the borough there will be a number of Beacon lighting ceremonies on the day at the following times:
Basildon - Gloucester Park 9pm
Laindon, Pound Lane - Paddocks group - 8.30pm - 10pm
Pitsea, Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon Heritage Society - 8pm - 9.30pm
Wickford, Wickford Memorial Park - Wickford Town Council - 8pm - 10pm
Billericay, Sun Corner - Billericay Town Council 8.30pm - 9.30pm
Noak Bridge - Noak Bridge Town Council - 7.30pm - 10pm
Swanmead, Vange - 8.45pm
Bowers Gifford Westlake Park - 7pm
The Mayor of Basildon, Cllr Allan Davies said:
"I hope as many of our residents can join us at the many events taking place across the borough. It is an opportunity for us to come together to honour and pay our respects to those who gave so much for the freedoms we enjoy today.
Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Leader of the Basildon Council added:
"To commemorate this significant day, beacon lighting ceremonies will take place across the borough, symbolising peace and unity. Additional local events are also planned to reflect, remember, and celebrate this important chapter in our history."
There are a number of other events taking place across the borough and they include:
· 3 - 10 May, 10am - 4pm: Basildon Borough Heritage Society - WW2 Historical images and artifacts display @ The Green Centre, Wat Tyler Country Park, Pitsea
· 5 May: VE Day Commemoration event featuring displays and stalls - South Green Memorial Hall, Southend Rd, Billericay CM11 2PR
· 8 May, 12 noon: VE Day Act of Remembrance - A special service at St Cathrines Church, 120 Southend Road, Wickford, SS11 8EB
· 9 May, 1 - 4pm: VE Day afternoon tea @The Wick Community Centre, Silva Island Way, Wickford SS12 9NR.
You can find out more on the council's website VE Day 80 - Basildon
Ends
Published 7 May 2025.